Kaitlinn Lose Devolites ‘16 chose Shenandoah because of its campus culture and believed it would offer her opportunities to grow as a student. “They have a tremendous staff,” said Devolites. “The professors go to great lengths to demonstrate their care for students, both in and out of the classroom.”
During her time at Shenandoah, Devolites enjoyed her Adult Years and Aging class and volunteered her time to the Shenandoah Area Agency on Aging fundraiser.
Devolites is the executive director for Adult Care Center of the Northern Shenandoah Valley (ACC) in Winchester, Virginia. The center is a non-profit that provides care and support for the geriatric community. In this position, she fundraises, writes grants and communicates with the families of those who visit the ACC.
“I am passionate about caring and advocating for the aging population,” said Devolites. “I believe one of the most important parts of my job is helping families receive the best resources possible for the care of their loved ones, and also to be a part of improving the quality of life for persons diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and dementia.”
Devolites worked at the ACC as an intern while studying at Shenandoah. After graduating in 2016, she held leadership roles at two assisted living facilities before returning to the ACC. Before taking the role as executive director, she was an activities assistant and assistant director.
One of the most rewarding parts of Devolites career at ACC is its Music and Memory program. Many of the participants in this program rarely talk or engage with others so seeing them respond to music by singing, smiling and interacting is a very gratifying feeling for her.
Devolites’ Shenandoah education prepared her for her career by providing her leadership opportunities and her internship at ACC.
Devolites’ advice to students is: “Lean on the people who celebrate you in your strongest moments and support you in your most challenging ones. Know that you can find work that you are passionate about, and that you have the ability to change someone’s life for the better.”